Homework Tips for Parents & Students

Homework is an extension of the work students do in the classroom. It reinforces what they have learned in school, helps them become independent learners, and encourages discipline and responsibility.

Homework also provides opportunities for parents and families to be involved in their children's education. When parents show an interest in their child's schoolwork, they send a message that learning is important.

Homework Hot Tips

Being prepared is the first step to success. Keep a supply of paper, pens, and pencils at home so your child can bring them to school and use them for homework. Check with the teacher to see if there are specific supplies needed for the year.

Set aside a quiet, well-lit place where your child can study and do homework without being disturbed. When this is not possible, your local library is the perfect spot.

3. Read!

Read to your children and encourage them to read every day. Make books a part of every holiday and birthday list. Set a good example: let your children see you reading.

Parents are welcome in every school. Make an appointment to visit or talk with your child's teachers--you don't have to wait for them to contact you. Ask for a copy of the school handbook or rules, and find out what is expected of your child.

5. Know Your School District.

All school districts provide families with a calendar containing important dates and information on policies, procedures, and more. Homework guidelines and parent involvement tips are often included. If you haven't received a copy, contact your child's school.

The public library is your best source of information--visit the one in your neighborhood. Most libraries have computers which students can use to do research and type assignments. And librarians are always willing to help point you in the right direction.

Rochester and the surrounding area offer a variety of resources that can add a new dimension to learning. Take your children to local museums, historical sites, the zoo, parks, libraries, and performance theatres to encourage an enjoyment and love of learning.

Younger children can learn a lot from the people and things around them every day. Call their attention to newspaper articles, street signs, and billboards and discuss what they mean or represent. Use one-on-one time to talk with your children and teach them new things.

Find out about after-school homework programs at school, tutoring at church, recreation center activities, and services offered by neighborhood associations and settlement houses.

Encourage your child to write down each day's homework and to keep track of long-term assignments and their due dates. Check to see that homework is completed each day. If your child does not have homework for more than a day or two, call the teacher.

Students and parents can receive help with homework by watching the "Homework Hotline" call-in show on WXXI (channel 21, cable channel 11). The show is broadcast Monday through Thursday from 5:30-6:00 p.m.

Need help with homework, all subjects, any grade? Call Dial-A-Teacher from 4:00-7:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday at 262-5000.

For more information on Dial-A-Teacher, click here.

Homework Hot Tips brought to you by the Rochester City School District, Rochester Teachers Association's Dial-A-Teacher, WXXI, and Greater Rochester's Promise.

Grades K-2 .....................15 minutes
Grade 3 ............................30 minutes
Grades 4-5 ......................30-60 minutes
Grades 6-8 ......................1 1/2 to 2 1/2 hours
Grades 9-12 ....................2 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours (including study time).